Synthesis of a potassium capped terminal cobalt-oxido complex.

An unusual example of a potassium capped terminal cobalt-oxido complex has been isolated and crystallographically characterized. The synthesis of [ t Bu,Tol DHP]CoOK proceeds from a previously reported parent compound, [ t Bu,Tol DHP]CoOH, via deprotonation with KO t Bu. Structural and electronic characterization suggest a weakly coupled dimer in a distinct seesaw geometry with a Co(III) oxidation state and a non-innocent radical ligand.